Echocardiographic Characterization of the Inferior Vena Cava in Trained and Untrained Females

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore the long- and short-axis dimensions, shape and collapsibility of the inferior vena cava in 46 trained and 48 untrained females (mean age: 21 ± 2 y). Echocardiography in the subcostal view revealed a larger expiratory long-axis diameter (mean: 24 ± 3 vs. 20 ± 3 mm, p < 0.001) and short-axis area (mean: 5.5 ± 1.5 vs. 4.7 ± 1.4 cm, p = 0.014) in trained females. IVC shape (the ratio of short-axis major to minor diameters) and the relative decrease in IVC dimension with inspiration were similar for the two groups. The IVC long-axis diameter reflected short-axis minor diameter and was correlated to maximal oxygen uptake (r = 0.52, p < 0.01). In summary, the results indicate that trained females have a larger IVC similar in shape and respiratory decrease in dimensions to that of untrained females. The long-axis diameter corresponded closely to short-axis minor diameter and, thus, underestimates maximal IVC diameter.

Vascular characteristics in young women—Effect of extensive endurance training or a sedentary lifestyle

“…Thus, it seems likely that differences in arterial dimension may be one factor that explains the differences between groups noted in AI. In a previous study, we found that trained females had larger inferior vena cava dimensions compared to untrained females …”

“…In a previous study, we found that trained females had larger inferior vena cava dimensions compared to untrained females. 57 Based on the knowledge that hypertensive middle-aged and aged women have higher risk of developing left ventricular hypertrophy and severe heart failure than men, it has been concluded that preventive strategies directed towards earlier and more aggressive blood pressure control are especially important in women. 22 In the light of this, the present blood pressure data may provide some clues regarding the preventive potential of physical exercise in women.…”

Quantifying systemic congestion with Point-Of-Care ultrasound: development of the venous excess ultrasound grading system

“…All of these markers have been associated with adverse consequences of venous hypertension, both in acute and chronic settings [18][19][20][21]. However, they also all have significant limitations that may hamper their clinical usefulness when interpreted in isolation [22][23][24]. It is likely that considering a combination of these ultrasonographic features may increase the clinical usefulness of POCUS for the purpose of detecting significant venous congestion.…”

Inferior vena cava ultrasonography in the assessment of intravascular volume status and fluid responsiveness in the emergency department and intensive care unit: A critical analysis review

“…In the supine position, the elliptical shape of the IVC is very likely attributed to its compression from the abdominal viscera against the vertebral column; therefore, IVC diameter measurements may vary along its course during the respiratory cycle (Figure 2C). 78,79 By convention, in our practice, IVC dimensions are usually obtainable from the subcostal window when the IVC is depicted in long axis. IVC measurements are made 0.5-3.0 cm proximal to the ostium of the right atrium, while at this anatomic position, the maximal diameter (both in expiration and inspiration) is measured.…”